Soft, sweet, spice-infused buns studded with dried currants (or raisins), each marked with a symbolic cross—perfect for Easter, brunch, or enjoying warm with butter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Hot Cross Buns are a delicious combination of warm spices, soft dough, and a subtle sweetness that make them a perfect treat for Easter or any special occasion. With a beautiful cross design on top and a light, fluffy texture inside, they’re ideal for serving as a festive breakfast or snack. Plus, the option to drizzle them with icing adds an extra layer of sweetness!
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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¾ cup warm water
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1 tbsp active dry yeast
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 tbsp dry milk powder (optional)
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1 tsp salt
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¼ cup butter, mostly melted
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2 large eggs
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3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp allspice (optional)
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¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
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¾ cup dried currants or raisins
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For the cross paste: ¼ cup flour + 2 tbsp water
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For the icing (optional): 2½–3 tbsp powdered sugar + 1 tbsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla
Directions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a bowl or mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and ¼ cup sugar. Stir and let sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add milk powder, salt, melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and 2 cups flour. Mix, then add remaining flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Add the Currants
Fold in currants or raisins. Shape dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, 1–2 hours.
Step 4: Shape the Buns
Punch down dough and divide into 12 buns. Shape and place on a baking tray, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
Step 5: Bake the Buns
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk flour and water to form a pipeable paste. Pipe crosses on buns. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and hollow sounding.
Step 6: Icing (Optional)
If icing is preferred, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla; drizzle over cooled buns.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 25 minutes active + 1½–2 hours rise
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Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
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Total Time: ~2 hours 45 minutes
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Kcal: ~270 kcal per bun
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Servings: 12 buns
Tips for Best Results
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Don’t overbake the buns; they should be golden on top but soft and tender inside.
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Use fresh currants or raisins for the best flavor and texture.
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To ensure your buns rise properly, make sure your yeast is activated before proceeding with the recipe.
Conclusion
These Hot Cross Buns are a wonderful addition to your Easter festivities, with their warm spices and sweet, fluffy texture. The cross on top is not just symbolic but also makes them visually appealing. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a bit of butter, these buns will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, or store them for later as a treat throughout the week.
Print
Hot Cross Buns
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: ~36 servings
Description
A dreamy spread that combines creamy softened butter with sweet honey and warm cinnamon—perfect on rolls, pancakes, toast, or breakfast pastries.
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup honey
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
In a mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened butter on medium-high for about 1 minute until creamy.
Add powdered sugar, honey, and cinnamon. Begin mixing on low to incorporate dry ingredients, then increase to medium and beat until smooth and fluffy. Scrape the bowl as needed to ensure even blending.
Once fully combined, transfer the butter to a jar or storage container.
Use immediately or store: keep at room temperature for a few days, refrigerate for several months, or freeze up to 6 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
